Question

Read Romeo’s cousin Benvolio’s monologue from act I of Romeo and Juliet. What does this excerpt convey about Juliet’s cousin Tybalt?

BENVOLIO: Here were the servants of your adversary,
And yours, close fighting ere I did approach:
I drew to part them: in the instant came
The fiery Tybalt, with his sword prepared,
Which, as he breathed defiance to my ears,
He swung about his head and cut the winds,
Who nothing hurt withal hiss'd him in scorn:
While we were interchanging thrusts and blows,
Came more and more and fought on part and part,
Till the prince came, who parted either part.

Answer 1

Answer: Tybalt is hot-headed and enjoys fighting.

This excerpt demonstrates that Tybalt is hot-headed, and that he enjoys fighting. Benvolio tells us that Tybalt was "fiery" and that by the time he approached them, he already had his sword prepared. He started challenging Benvolio while swinging his sword around. All of this shows that Tybalt is not scared or reluctant to fight. In fact, he seems to enjoy it, as he seems to be willing and enthusiastic.